You can never go wrong when a local business expands, and that truth shines brightly in the recent groundbreaking for the $200 million expansion of the Bel Brands USA plant in Brookings.
It’s more than just a corporate milestone; it’s a vote of confidence in the people and the future of Brookings. As the popularity of Babybel cheese continues to climb, Bel’s decision to double down on its South Dakota operations serves as a testament to the region’s world-class workforce and thriving dairy industry.
The economic implications of this project are staggering. By adding 100,000 square feet to its already massive facility, Bel isn’t just growing its footprint — it could expand our middle class as well. That’s because the expansion will create up to 160 new, high-paying jobs, with hourly wages reaching up to $100,000. This translates to an estimated $12 million in annual income flowing directly back into our local shops, restaurants and services.
If that wasn’t impressive enough, then consider this: Our local dairy farmers are among the project’s biggest winners. With milk demand expected to double to 1.3 million pounds daily, the “I-29 dairy corridor” is solidifying its reputation as a national powerhouse. This creates a sustainable, circular economy where local agriculture feeds local manufacturing, which in turn fuels local prosperity.
Success like this doesn’t happen by accident. It is the result of a partnership between the city of Brookings, the state of South Dakota, and the Brookings Regional Growth Alliance. By providing smart, structured incentives — from infrastructure improvements to workforce development grants — our leaders have ensured that Brookings remains a premier destination for investment.
As we look toward the 2028 production startup, we should all take pride in what this expansion represents. It proves that when you combine a “top-notch” team with a supportive community, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Brookings isn’t just open for business — it’s leading the way.
SDSU has built a solid women’s basketball program
The SDSU community can be proud of its women’s basketball program.
This weekend the squad is in Texas to play in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
The Jackrabbits earned entry into the Dance by winning their fourth consecutive Summit League tournament title earlier this month.
The team carries an impressive 27-6 record into the tournament and it is the 14th time the last 18 years that the team has qualified for the NCAA Tournament.
Success for the program can be measured by conference titles and NCAA Tournament appearances and the team continually reaches those goals.
Twenty-plus win seasons have become the norm for the team.
This is a testament to a solid program built by the SDSU Athletic Department and Coach Aaron Johnston.
Under Johnston’s guidance, SDSU has been able to has become a perennial Summit League power. It seems that SDSU is a team that never rebuilds, it simply reloads.
The program has been able to continually replenish its roster with talented, hard-working young women who work together well as a team. And this year’s team has followed that tradition.
To achieve this level of success for such a long period of time is truly remarkable and a tribute to Coach Johnston, the SDSU Athletic Department and the university.
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